The Actual Task [4]

The massive double doors of the Royal Court swung open with a grand flourish, and the room seemed to draw in a collective breath.

Duke Neville's entrance was like a dark cloud passing over the sun, casting a long, eerie shadow that seemed to seep into every corner of the hall.

The temperature felt as though it had dropped several degrees, and the flickering torchlight cast long, trembling shadows on the polished marble floors.

The nobles and ministers exchanged nervous glances, their expressions a mix of surprise, curiosity, and apprehension.

The usually composed faces of the court members were now tinged with unease, their eyes darting towards the Duke and then quickly away, as if afraid to linger too long.

The Emperor's gaze hardened, a steely glint in his eyes as he watched Duke Neville's slow, deliberate approach.

The Empress beside him maintained her serene facade, but her eyes were sharp, scrutinizing every move the Duke made.